Local Notes: Rebecca Donoghue is crowned the 2025 Carracastle Lass.
The 10 girls who took part in the recent 2025 Carracastle Lass Final …the winner was Rebecca Donohue representing O’Dowd’s Lakeview Bar and Lounge, runner-up was Kate Ni Shuilleabhain representing Caiseal Gaels Hurling Club while 3rd was Sarah Richardson representing Davey’s Bar, Carracastle.
There was no winner of the Charlestown Sarsfields GAA lotto jackpot of €19,100 in the weekly draw held on Sunday, October 26, and the following were the four numbers drawn; 9,15, 22 and 36. The winners of the €50 weekly prizes were Vinny Hunt and Laura Dunleavy. The latest jackpot increased to €19,200 and the draw was held on Sunday, November 2.
Senior exercise class takes place in the in the Arts Centre, Barrack Street, Charlestown on Friday mornings at 11am and all are welcome.
Arts and Craft classes take place in the Arts Centre on Wednesday mornings from11am-1pm and new members are most welcome.
The Cemetery Rosary takes place in in Charlestown Cemetery on Sunday, November 9 after 12 noon Mass.
The Annual Bereavement Service will take place on Sunday, November 23, at 5pm in St James’s Church, Charlestown. It’s a time when we remember all those who have died in the past twelve months in the parish. An invitation is extended to those whose loved ones have passed away outside the parish community, if they wish to have their loved one remembered in the service to contact Fr John Maloney.
Women’s Box-Fit classes (fun fitness for all ages and levels) take place every Wednesday at the Charlestown Boxing Club headquarters, Old Cloonfane School, from 7.30-8.45pm. The cost is €60 per eight week block or €10 per session (pay as you go). The instructor is Keely Stevens, five times national champion. Call 089 4977388 for more details.
Family Carers Ireland is currently recruiting for Community Homecare Workers. Work hours flexible based on availability. Essential qualifications for applicants are QQ1 Care of the Older Person and Care Skills modules completed and they must have their own car and full driving licence. Send CV to jobs@familycarers.ie or contact Carol on 049 8511051 or 086 4183949 for more information.
Rosary takes place at Tavneena Upper Shrine each night at 8pm during the month of November.
Dance classes with Gina at Carracastle Community Centre are held on Wednesday evenings at 8pm. Learn to jive, waltz, quickstep and line dance. For more information, contact 085 7704647.
Yoga classes with Tish takes place in the Charlestown Arts Centre on Tuesday nights at 7.15pm.
The next Community Coffee Morning takes place on Friday, November 7, in the Arts Centre from 11am-1pm . Lift access is available. All are welcome for a cuppa and a chat.
The Youth 2000 Connaught retreat takes place on November 21-23 in Summerhill College, Sligo with workshops, music, talk, testimonies and more. Donation only. Register online at Youth2000.ie or contact connaught@youth2000.ie for more information.
The rosary will be recited at the Lurga Shrine during the month of November at 7pm each evening and 5pm on Sunday evening for the Holy Souls. Everyone welcome.
Charlestown Sarsfields under-U21 team began their U21 campaign with a comprehensive 3-11 to 0-7 victory over Achill in round 1 of the group stages played at the Achill GAA grounds in Keel recently. The Sarsfields made light of the long trek to the island as they made short work of the home challenge with a clinical display as they dominated all the key metrics and bossed the game pretty much from the throw-in.
The Sarsfields were on it from the get-go and fired over a couple of quick scores to knock the islanders out of their stride as they eased into the lead and truth to tell never looked like relinquishing it any stage.
The Sarsfields had a sizeable lead built up at half-time thanks to goals from Conor McArdle and Cian Towey with a penalty and they continued where they left off in the second half and kept the islanders at arm’s length comfortably for the majority of the second half.
A third goal from Eoin Murphy put the seal on a good team performance with Anthony Conway and his management team beaming afterwards as the team played very well in the main with this victory giving them a decent shot at making the quarters as they played host to Shrule/Glencorrib in round 2 of the group stages on Saturday last at Fr O’Hara Park.
The untimely death took place at Sligo University Hospital recently of Alice McHugh, Killaturley, Swinford, and formerly of Tarsaghaun, Ballycroy, Co. Mayo. Deepest sympathies are tendered to the bereaved.
Yoga class with Sophie takes place at Carracastle Community Centre on Tuesday evenings from 7.30-8.30pm. The cost is €10 per class and there is a free taster class for newcomers. To book call 083 4798831.
The thirtieth (30th) anniversary of the Carracastle Lass was held on Saturday, October 18, at the Carracastle Community Centre and continues to go from strength to strength as a huge crowd packed the splendidly appointed venue as it remains universally popular with the locals and the many well-wishers who come from far and wide to support.
Ten entrants took to the stage, all in with a chance of winning the 2025 coveted Carracastle Lass 2025 crown. The standard of entrants was once again extremely high and they all acquitted themselves very well. The audience got a feel for their personalities through their interactions on the stage and got to hear all about their achievements with regard to work and life etc. The ladies also got the opportunity to showcase their myriads of talents with a range of party pieces that involved sean nós dancing, reciting poems, playing the tin whistle and leading an aerobics class to mention but a few.
The poor judges were left in the unenviable position of having to choose the top three, which, after much deliberation and discussion, they decided to award first place to Rebecca Donoghue representing O’Dowd’s Lakeview Bar and Lounge, followed by runner-up Kate Ní Shuilleabhain representing Caiseal Gaels Hurling Club with third place going to Sarah Richardson representing Davey’s Bar (Carracastle). The three winners shared prize money of €300, as well as receiving a Tipperary Crystal Necklace each. The tiara and winners’ sash was presented to Rebecca by 2024 winner Ava Hanley who received a warm welcome on her return to the stage as she shared her journey and experiences of the last year.
Congratulations and well done to all of the stunningly talented, intelligent girls who participated this year. They were a credit to themselves, their families and the businesses they represented. The following were the ten girls who took part and the businesses/clubs they represented; Rebecca Donoghue, O`Dowd’s Lakeview Bar & Lounge; Kate Ní Shuilleabhain, Caiseal Gaels Hurling Club; Sarah Rochardson, Davey’s Bar, Carracastle; Jessica Dozio, Dozio Cheese; Grainne Phillips, The Old Forge Bar; Heather Duncan, McLoughlin`s Bar, Charlestown; Louise Horkan, Walsh`s Public House, Charlestown; Maoliosa Durcan, Complex Coffee, Charlestown; Katelyn Kelly, Johnny’s Bar, Charlestown; and Darija Katarskyte, The Hatch Bar.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended on the night and helped create the special atmosphere that existed with each and every girl receiving the same level of support and respect which was refreshing to see. Many thanks to all the businesses and individuals who sponsored the event, their support and generosity was superb and without which the event would not have gone ahead. Thank you to all who helped prepare and decorate the centre, sold raffle tickets, did security and helped with traffic management, these jobs were every bit as critical and crucial to the undoubted success of the event on the night. Many thanks to the judging panel of Jackie Gaynor-McGarry, Enda Lavin and Rhona Healy who were so giving of their time and were thorough and fair with their interviewing and deliberation skills. A special word of thanks to the award winning radio presenter and Mayo Rose of Tralee compere Ollie Turner on his first visit to the Carracastle, he was excellent in his role and had the audience in stitches with his sharp and quick wittedness which went down a treat with the large crowd. He also had that all important knack of making the girls feel at ease on the stage and got the best out of them with his fun and sense of humour.
A big thank you to Joe Dooney from Spin Mobile DJ for providing the audio, music and photography; to Angela Tansey, Buds & Bling Florist for the beautiful bouquets and roses and to Colleran’s Pharmacy (Charlestown) for the gorgeous Tipperary Crystal Jewellery.
Special thanks to the organising committee of Teresa Quinn, Margaret Owens, Margaret Lundy, Caroline Henry and Patrick Strahan for all their hard work and attention to detail in ensuring everything ran smoothly. Everyone wishes Rebecca all the very best for the Mayo Rose of Tralee selection night and look forward to welcoming her back on stage for next year’s event, where we will find out who will follow in her footsteps and take home the title of Carracastle Lass 2026.
Here’s a brilliant idea for a gift with the Christmas season coming very much into focus. Why not order/get a portrait drawing of a loved one. Matt Doyle has a terrific talent for the whole amazing art and design of portrait drawing and this might well be an avenue to ponder on in terms of surprising a loved one with their very own portrait. For more information check out the Charlestown (town) Facebook page and PM for details.
The East Mayo Athletic Club have a membership special offer for all new members with 15 months on offer for the price of 12. For more information log onto the East Mayo Athletic Club Facebook page and follow the link.
Youth Theatre Drama workshops continue on November 10, 17 and 25 in the Charlestown Arts Centre from 6-7.30pm for 12-18 year olds. The focus over the course of the four workshops will be on movement, vocal work, script work, character development, improvisation and musical theatre. Thus represents a great way to meet new friends, develop creativity, confidence, wellbeing, be active and have so much fun. For more details and booking contact Carmel on 086 0734867.
Carracastle Trad Session takes place every Wednesday night at Davey’s Bar, Carracastle, Co. Mayo starting at 9pm with an old fashioned rambling house session. No microphones or speakers. All musicians/singers welcome.
The cubs basketball team have enjoyed a great start to the new season with several of their teams across both genders getting their league campaigns off to a winning start. The U16 girls maintained the trend as they defeated Ballyhaunis in their first outing in division 2 of the league and made a very promising start indeed as served notice of their rich potential and talent in doing so. A dream start for the team and their coaches and one they will be looking to follow up in the coming weeks against the remainder of the teams in their division. Remember for more news of upcoming fixtures for each grade and gender check out the Cubs Basketball Facebook page which provides all you need to know on all things connected with the club.
Three One Act comedies on one unforgettable night of theatre with the Town Hall Arts Centre very much the place to be on November 13, 14 and 15 respectively. Contact Naomi for tickets on 087 4657946. Tickets must be reserved. The three One Act Plays being staged are as follows: Act 1 Overtones by Alice Gestenberg. Step back to New York 1916 where refined manners meet raw emotion in this darkly funny exploration of the past that’s both shaken and stirred. Act 2, ‘The Census’, a sharp witty comedy with a twist, set in modern day Dublin, where nothing (and no one) is quite what they seem. Act 3, ‘Waiting for You’ by Mark O’Leary (for adult audiences only). Ever wondered what really happens in the doctor’s waiting room? You’ll find out and laugh all the way through.
Don’t miss this triple bill of laughter, wit and surprises. Three comedies and one fantastic evening of live theatre. Save the dates and don’t forget to order your tickets and reserve your seats.
Well done to the Charlestown Sarsfields U13 girls who rounded off their season in some style with a thrilling victory over Knockmore in the Division 3 U13 league final played at the Centre of Excellence, Bekan recently. The girls saved their best for the biggest day of the lot and got the job done in stirring fashion and were worthy winners against a very good and spirited Knockmore team. Great credit must go to the management team of Aidan Higgins, Trina Donohue, Darragh McMeel and John Gately who got the very best out of a very committed and willing panel who improved immeasurably with each and every game they played. The girls have a great future ahead of them with this title one of many that will hopefully come their way on the green and white of the Sarsfields in the years to come. Well done to all concerned and what a great way to wrap up the season where the Sarsfields once again contended at every grade and brought home plenty of silverware to boot.
Completed Dublin City Marathon
Congratulations to a plethora of Charlestown athletes who completed the Dublin City Marathon held on Sunday, October 26 last. Honourable mention to husband and wife team Martin and Trina Donohue, Ronan Kenny, Peter Gallagher, Cailin Durkan, Shona Dunleavy and Paul Sheeran, all of whom completed the twenty six mile plus test of endurance and clocked excellent times to boot with each and every one of the athletes elated to have made it across the finish line. They deserve great kudos for taking on a challenge that is renowned as the toughest test of endurance for man and woman but face it they did as they covered every square inch of a demanding and challenging course that asked all kinds of questions of them, both physically and mentally which comes with the territory when one takes on a challenge such as this. All seven answered every question that was posed, however, with many setting new personal bests which only added another layer of acclaim to an extraordinary achievement as they can bask in the accomplishment of joining a select club of completing the marathon. All seven are prominent members of the East Mayo Athletics Club and they and their many friends in the community salute their wonderful feat and they have certainly raised the bar for many who might be thinking of emulating what they have achieved. For now they can put their feet up and take a well earned rest and plan their next target with a tilt at the New York marathon perhaps in the pipeline in the near future.
New and returning members are asked join the parish choir. No prior experience required. Practice takes place each Thursday at 7pm in the Parish Church. Enquiries to Carmel on 086 3271196.
Kilmovee Cois Tine is a relaxed community evening with live music, food and a raffle, held on the second Monday of each month. The next Cois Tine is on Monday, November 10.
Congratulations are extended to Michael Egan, son of Vera Scally and Kevin Egan, Sandyhill, Curry and Martina Muprhy, daughter of Mary and the late Eddie Murphy, Lecarrow, Charlestown, who were married in the Diamond Coast Hotel, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo recently. Michael and Martina are wished every good wish for the future, health and happiness and many years of marital bliss.
Congratulations are extended to Dervla McCaffrey , daughter of Sean and Siobhan McCaffrey Sonnagh, Charlestown who celebrated her coming of age recently.
Exercise classes are back with Tracey in the Charlestown Arts Centre on Friday afternoons, October 24 and 31 respectively at 12 noon. €2 contribution per class. Lift access available.
The Living Well programme helps people living with chronic conditions. Anyone with any illness such as diabetes, arthritis, COPD, cardiac illness, anxiety, etc can benefit from these workshops. Prior registration is required. Contact Liam Gildea on 086 0142675 or ligildea@southmayo.com.
There was a good turnout at the weekly bridge game held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Wednesday, October 22, at 8pm, and the following were the prize winners; 1st Hilary McDonagh and Tom Ginty, 2nd Mary Lynskey and Tom Dunne, 3rd Nora McVeigh and Maura Kilcoyne, and 4th Carmel Moffitt and Hilary McCrohan.
There was a good turnout at the weekly 25-card game held at the Yeats County Inn, Curry, on Tuesday night,October 28, at 9pm and the following were the prize-winners; 1st Joe Mahon and Kevin Maloney, 2nd Miko Sheridan and Vera Scally. Raffle winners were; Mary Costello, Mary O’Hara and Darby Leonard.
The Music Circle with John Hoban and Isabela Basombrio Hoban continues in Carracastle Community Centre on Monday, November 10, from 7pm. All are welcome to sing a song, play a tune, recite a poem or simple listen. It is a free event, tea/coffee and refreshments served.
There was no winner of the Curry GAA lotto jackpot of €4500 in the weekly draw held on Monday night, October 27 and the following were four numbers drawn on the night; 4, 13, 18 and 22. The following were the winners of the €20 weekly prizes; Kaylee Barker, Stephen Maye and Bernadette Gallagher.
The latest jackpot increased to €4600 and the draw took place on Monday night November 3. Tickets can be bought in a number of outlets or via the online platform and also by logging onto the club’s Facebook and Twitter pages respectively.
Alone is a national organisation that enables people to age at home. They have a National Support and Referral Line for older people. If you are in need of advice, support or information, call 0818 222 024 , seven days a week from 8am -8pm.
Senior Line is Ireland`s national telephone service for older people open every day of the year 10am-10pm. Freephone 1800 80 45 91. Callers may feel isolated, alone and may wish to discuss a problem in confidence, or for company during the day. Senior Line`s older volunteers are trained to listen, to support, to discuss options and to refer callers to other helpful services, if necessary. Senior Line 1800 80 45 91 is open every day of the year at the above times.
There was a good turnout at the weekly darts competition held in Walsh’s Bar, Main Street, Charlestown, on Sunday, October 26, as The Duke and Governor Gus played it out in another interesting instalment of the weekly classic. With Gus at the ochie it was left to the Pillock to step into the referee’s chair and this he did with some flux as he flexed his muscles and caused some chaos in the overall flow of the game with his interpretation on maintaining good conduct. The Duke flew out of the blocks and put the first two sets on the board with some sublime darts. Gus bore the look of a broken man at the start of the third but found some form from deep inside his vast reservoirs of spirit to snatch the set with his final dart finding the furthest corner of the double twelve bed in the fourth leg to pull one set back and restore some hope that all was not lost on his part.
It proved to be a false dawn however, as Divilly, seething from his third set demise, took control at the start of the fourth and steamed his way to victory with some magical throwing. He bagged the opening two legs with ease as he re-discovered his standard from sets one and two. Gus did his best to stymie his progress but just couldn’t match the numbers of a rampant Duke as his darts took on a wizardy of their own. He clinched the match with a treble eighteen, double eighteen blast in the third leg to complete a comprehensive 3-1 victory with having nothing left to do only doff his cap in the direction of his opponent as he was a most convincing winner. This victory, his seventh of an impressive season was greeted like all the rest with the usual and customary levels of celebration being very much in vogue.
